Please note: I included only one version of the Volna scarf pattern in the details listed here, but many variations are possible. Three different ones are featured in the pattern! Please see here for details of the other versions, including yarn requirements, needles, finished size, etc.

Short rows create a sense of movement in the fabric of the Volna scarf, which means “wave” in Russian. Simple eyelets and a serrated border enhance the effect, allowing the eye to follow the progression of knitting, from row to row, wave to colorful wave. The pattern works up quickly: it is garter stitch-based (so, the scarf is reversible and there’s no purling!), easy to memorize, and very addictive!

The pattern is well-suited for yarns with long stretches of color, such as many yarns by Noro, Crystal Palace, Plymouth, Regia, Opal, and Schoppel Wolle. Using a solid or semi-solid yarn would create a beautiful version as well. There are instructions for three widths – narrow, medium, and wide – and each width can be knit using a variety of yarn weights, from laceweight to bulky. You can envision and create an endless number of possibilities, from a wispy spring scarf to a cozy winter shawl!

For example, combine only one skein of Noro Kirameki (laceweight) and the medium version of the pattern to create a lovely lace scarf that’s about 9.5” wide and 78” long. Or use two skeins of Noro Taiyo (aran weight) and the narrow version for a cozy winter scarf, 7.5” wide and 76” long. If you’re looking for a show stopper, use two skeins of Noro Sekku (laceweight) and the wide version for a large stole, about 17” wide and 72” long.

TECHNIQUES used in this design: basic lace knitting, increases and decreases, short rows, reading charts.